The most dangerous moment to lavish attention on a guy is when you first start dating. The truth is, a guy doesn't expect or want much during this phase.

Rule of thumb: Less is more.

What to get him: Your best bet is to give him a gift that can be consumed. If you know he likes a certain type of beer, buy him an entire case. If he's a fitness freak, get him his favorite nutrition bars. Avoid silly trinkets, like little figurines/key chains/etc.

He's Your Brand-New Boyfriend

The thing about romantic gestures at this point is that they can be all about the two of you as a couple...so long as it's kept in control.

Rule of thumb: Inside jokes are good, but avoid stuff that expands your intimacy into a domain where you haven't been invited. (For example, whatever you do, don't call his mom on the phone asking for the recipes to his favorite dishes, even if you really want to cook him a special dinner.)

What to get him: This is tricky. You want to get him something nice but not too nice. A fun night out on the town? Yes. A tropical vacation for two planned for six months down the road? No. A couples massage? Yes. That letter embroidered on a pillow? No. The key with all of this is to give him something he can enjoy right now but that isn't too heavily directed toward "the future."

You've Been a Couple for a While

At this stage of the game, he loves to be told that you still think he's your man.

Rule of thumb: Get personal and creative to show that you still care.

What to get him: Buy him (and his best friend) tickets to go watch his favorite sports team. Book him for a week at a basketball fantasy camp. Get him a dog — the one he's always wanted, not a tiny pup that will fit in your purse. The best romantic gestures are the ones that remind him of why the two of you are so perfect together.